TREATMENT PHILOSOPHY

TLC's strength-based treatment philosophy of "Connections to Self, Others and Community" infuses the treatment within each residence. Adolescents participate in ongoing assessment of their strengths and needs and develop goals that focus on skill set areas that need improvement. Participation in the consistent and structured milieu setting offers residents the opportunity to develop positive coping skills, improve communication, and initiate community involvement. The average length of stay is 12-18 months depending on each individual's treatment plan and discharge goals.

Therapeutic services include individual, family and group therapy provided by our Outpatient Mental Health Services or Extended Education Program. Psychiatric care is provided as often as clinically indicated. Many of our residents are enrolled at Journey High School, where in addition to an academic program, they participate in daily milieu and therapeutic groups and activities.

An important aspect of the TLC residential treatment program is a thorough assessment of the connections each adolescent has with their peers, family, and other caring adults in their lives. The development of core relational capacities is at the heart of this aspect of treatment. We emphasize community involvement through our apprenticeship and mentor program, community outings, volunteerism, and employment in local businesses so that each client can learn the skills necessary to navigate a successful return to their family, school, and community.

TLC promotes family involvement from the beginning of treatment by encouraging regular communication among family members and onsite visitation as early as the first week of residence. Participation in family therapy is an integral part of the reunification process where parents or guardians and their adolescents develop the necessary skill sets to prepare for home visits. As residents engage in our program and participate in family therapy, they earn community-based outings and home passes with their families. TLC provides independent living skills training, permanency planning, and guidance for adolescents who do not have family reunification opportunities.